The President of the Russian Federation, Mr. Vladimir Putin, has sent the following congratulatory message to the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Nicos Anastasiades, on the occasion of the Independence Day that is celebrated on October 1 on the island:

“Dear Mr. President,

Please accept my cordial congratulations on the occasion of the Independence Day of the Republic of Cyprus.

A strong tradition friendship, mutual trust, cultural and moral affinity between our people is a solid foundation for advancing the relations between Russia and Cyprus. I am convinced that by joining our efforts we can further strengthen fruitful bilateral cooperation in every direction.

I wish you, Mr. President, health and every success, as well as prosperity to all your compatriots.”

Cyprus became independent from the British in 1960, after a 4 year war.